LHP sets date for initial budget hearing

Lighthouse Point Mayor Glenn Troast presented the proposed 2017-2018 city budget, one he said capitalizes on rising property values to hold the line on the tax rate - a policy decision that could feel to area residents like a tax increase.

With real estate worth 6.8 percent more, up to $574,392 for the average single-family home in Lighthouse Point and 7.2 percent to $100,804 for condos, revenue to the city will increase, he said.

Budget highlights also include:

-Pay increases and benefits for police and fire account for most of the budget and, with one additional expenditure, will add 4.8 percent, or $100,000, for what Troast called, "reasonable requests for other necessary equipment, including a new police vehicle, fire rescue communications and other life-saving equipment."

-The recreation budget also includes support for the Tennis Center of nearly $136,000 for fiscal year 2017-18.

The budget also notes a $230,000 appropriation for infrastructure, specifically storm water drainage.

File photo

The recreation budget also includes support for the Tennis Center of nearly $136,000.

The recreation budget also includes support for the Tennis Center of nearly $136,000.

(File photo)

The first of two public hearings is set for 6:30 p.m. Sept. 13, with a final hearing on Sept. 25, at City Hall, located at 2200 N.E. 38th St.